A.Sivalingam Frmp v. The Director General of Police
Case brief
What is this about?
CMS (Community Medical Service Certificate) diploma holders practising Ayurveda; police interference and threat of prosecution; writ of mandamus under Article 226 Constitution of India; right to lawful occupation under Article 19(1)(g); restraint on police action conditional on practising only the certified field; liberty to police to act against cross-practice in Siddha, Unani, Allopathy; representation dated 27.05.2023; Dr. Mukhtia Chand [1998 (7) SCC 579] referred in the prayer; Salem District police respondents; common order dated 17.02.2025; Madras High Court; W.P.Nos.17176, 17179, 17182, 17185 & 17186 of 2023.
What did the court decide?
Respondents directed to permit the petitioners to practise in their respective field alone; respondents and police officials restrained from initiating any action against the petitioners so long as they practise their respective mode of medicine, with liberty to the respondents/officials to verify and initiate action in accordance with law if the petitioners practise other fields (Siddha, Unani, Allopathy etc.). Connected miscellaneous petitions closed; no order as to costs.